Vantage Hoops Combine: 2017 Standouts (Part 1)
Baker Haviland (Cave Spring)/h2>
When it comes to skilled, stretch four men Haviland fits that role perfectly. A long, 6’6 perimeter oriented forward, he’s able to stretch the defense and create space for driving point guards. He’s great in a four or five out system, because he can run the pick-and-pop and doesn’t force his coach to give up size in order to match up on the perimeter. His ability to draw bigs away from the basket and still rebound like a traditional big makes him an asset, but he’ll need to learn to attack closeouts better to take the next leap.
Thomas “TC” Thacker (Amherst County)
Jalen Blackwell (Thomas Dale)
The 6’0 guard out of Chesterfield is just a player who found ways to get it done throughout the camp. Blackwell is an all-around type of player, one that hasn’t quite figured out his specialty, but that’s partially what makes him so good. He can play both on and off the ball, create for others or get a bucket when needed and is willing to rebound or sell out his body if it helps the team in any way. He should be a go to guy for a rebuilding Dale this season.
Gregory “Alden” Parham (Monacan)
Mike Burfoot (Clover Hill)
The burly 6’6 forward has a nice blend of strength and skill to his game, which makes him a dangerous weapon on the offensive end. At 220 lbs., Burfoot is able to clear out space in the lane when crashing the glass, and he’s able to step away from the basket where he has a soft touch out to 15 feet. He’s got glue-like hands in the post, and when he catches it in the paint he’s more than likely going to finish through traffic.
Michael McEneney (St. Stephen’s St. Agnes)
His size makes him a factor to begin with, as McEneney stands a legitimate 6’8 and a solid 230 lbs. He’s only been playing basketball for a couple of years, and the rate that he’s improving shows signs that he’ll be a worthy project. He already has good hands, keeps the ball high on rebounds and is patient in the post. He’ll have to become more mobile, especially laterally, but there’s a lot to be excited about with him.
Jordan Hamlette (Heritage)
The combo guard out of Lynchburg had a good summer for the Richmond Squires, and he looks poised and ready to continue that hot streak when the season rolls around. Hamlette is a heady guard that can light it up from deep when he steps into it and knows how to get to the spots he feels comfortable at to score. He has good vision and makes smart plays with the basketball, and his recent growth spurt, along with him filling out a little bit, should make him tougher to stop in the lane.